Page 109 - University English for non-speacalist

Too General: Smart phones are good.
Improved: Smart phones improve communication among friends and family members.

•A topic sentence is not a simple fact or specific detail.

Too Specific: Smart phones cost $300.
Improved: Because smart phones are expensive, people should consider several factors

before buying one.

Step 3: Demonstrate Your Point
After stating your topic sentence, you need to provide information to prove, illustrate, clarify,
and/or exemplify your point. Supporting sentences add information about the topic and the
controlling idea. It can include definitions, explanations, and examples.
Ask yourself:
• What examples can I use to support my point?
• What information can I provide to help clarify my thoughts?
• How can I support my point with specific data, experiences, or other factual material?
• What information does the reader need to know in order to see my point?

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